Sarah Watson begins each day with a simple mantra: Make a difference and be nice doing it.
“In my work and personal life, I make sure to keep a positive attitude and promote it around me,” says Watson, sales and business development manager at Hometown Disposal Inc. “I think a simple smile and a hello can go a long way in changing a person’s day. People are influenced in many ways, and I think reassurance and kindness goes a long way. These are attributes that are part of my daily routine.”
Watson brought a background in restaurant and property management and accounting when she began working at Hometown in 2011. During her three years with the Springfield company, Watson has helped manage growth as its office staff has doubled and now employs 10 drivers.
“I have always been a lead-by-example-type person,” she says. “I know it is my responsibility to bring in new customers, and I must feel confident in my team to deliver the service I promise. Knowing that each employee directly influences our customers, I try to ensure that they know the proper etiquette to handle any situation. I always make myself available to help them in any way. I do believe if you respect your employer and fellow employees, your work will show it.”
Watson says she shies away from a high-pressure sales environment, rather preferring to focus on forging relationships with clients to whom Hometown can supply service.
“I was hired to become the face of our company and build recognition throughout our community,” she says. “I know when you provide a service and ensure you are doing it better than any of your competitors you will have no problem growing your business. I focus on building long-lasting relationships with my customers and my community.”
Watson has been busy. She’s been involved with the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce’s ambassador committee, heads the membership council for the Home Builders Association of Greater Springfield and is a member of Springfield Metro Rotary, where she serves as the sergeant at arms and leads the nominating committee.
Watson found her way to Rotary through its fundraiser Rock’n Ribs, with which Hometown had become involved. For her, Rock ’n Ribs was just the beginning.
“I immediately loved everything (Rotary) stood for and knew that I wanted to be a member,” says Watson, who soon joined the Rock ’n Ribs executive committee. “When I joined my Rotary club, I really didn’t know what to expect.
“I joined with an open mind and knew that I would put my best foot forward. Before I knew it, I was on committees and involved in activities. ... It amazes me to be a member of a group of individuals who have traveled throughout the world to supply clean water to communities and to provide shoes for children that had none to wear.”[[In-content Ad]]
